Watch video: Actress Shagufta Ali breaks into tears as she receives financial aid of 5 lakh from Madhuri Dixit

Shagufta Ali (Photo/File pic)

On July 5, news broke that TV actor Shagufta Ali has been facing a financial crunch, owing to lack of work and the rising cost of her medical treatment. As soon as word of her condition reached the Cine & TV Artistes' Association (CINTAA), the body sprang into action. Amit Behl, senior joint secretary, CINTAA, revealed to mid-day that while they have initiated the process of offering financial assistance, the body also intends to seek Salman Khan's help. Meanwhile, the actress received financial aid of Rs. 5 lakh from Madhuri Dixit.

Shagufta recently appeared on the dance reality show 'Dance Deewane 3', where Madhuri Dixit, one of the judges of the show, handed over the cheque to the veteran, on behalf of the team. While handing the cheque to Shagufta Ali, Madhuri Dixit said, "You had written that you have nothing to even sell right now. You have reached such a stage today, so from the Dance Deewane team, we would like to do something for you. From them, I would like to give you a cheque of Rs 5 lakh." An emotional Shagufta Ali replied, "Thank you so much. I have no words."

Shagufta Ali has been part of many popular television shows, including 'Saans' and 'Bepannaah', in her 36-year career. The actor, whose health deteriorated after she was diagnosed with diabetes, told mid-day earlier that she initially refrained from seeking help as she struggled over the past four years. "On the work front, I'd get many scripts, but the projects would fall through at the last minute. My sugar level shot up, and I am on insulin. The diabetes has affected my eyesight so much that every 40 days, I have to get scans done. Basis the report, the doctor decides whether I should be given an injection in my eyes or opt for laser."

The actor, 54, took the struggles on the chin, believing that the tough phase will pass. She adds that Neena Gupta, Sumeet Raghavan and Sushant Singh lent her a helping hand during her difficult times. "Johnny Lever and several people called me yesterday [after learning of my condition]. Now, I have to gather myself and start working again."

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